Runners, VIPs and guides

[Tony Fewkes]

Is there anyone who could give some credence or otherwise to this family anecdote.

Dignitaries and VIPs visiting the battlefields- to be precise HRH Edward Prince of Wales who wished to get as close to the front line as he was allowed. Runners from various units were detailed to act as guides to the royal party because of their background knowledge and experience of the battle scarred terrain. It was very, very easy to get lost.

My Father 432448 Pte CB Fewkes was on one occasion, reputedly one of those Runners. He served in the 49th Edmonton Battalion CEF, was wounded on the Somme Sept 16th and returned to duty with the 49th Battn in France November 1917. I believe the area in question to be Ypres or somewhere in the Salient and the period most probably post November 1917

His mother, my grandmother gained much status by recounting this story, no doubt suitably embellished, to friends and relations.

I do recall my father speaking highly of the young HRH Prince of Wales in later years whether by personal observation or hearsay I know not. Again I believe this was a view shared by many serving soldiers.

Tony Fewkes